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Chew on This: How Your Diet Can Help Prevent Oral Cancer

Writer's picture: Dr. Trevor LindgrenDr. Trevor Lindgren

Oral cancer is a serious health concern, but did you know that your diet can play a significant role in both preventing or increasing your risk? At Copper Mountain Dental, we're not just about fixing teeth; we're passionate about your overall oral health, and that includes educating you on the power of nutrition. Let's explore how what you eat can impact your risk of developing oral cancer.


The Power of Prevention: Foods that Fight Oral Cancer

Incorporating certain foods into your diet can significantly contribute to oral cancer prevention. These nutritional powerhouses are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage and boost your immune system:   


  • Fruits and Vegetables:  These are your best allies! Focus on colorful options like:

    • Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale contain compounds that may help detoxify carcinogens.   

    • Dark Leafy Greens: Spinach, collard greens, and romaine lettuce are rich in folate and other essential nutrients.   

    • Citrus Fruits: Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C, an antioxidant that can protect against cell damage.

      • While I do endorse eating fruits I don't advise that you drink fruit juice. I have seen a lot of decay when people drink fruit juice--that includes juicing fruit at home. Also studies have shown that drinking a lot of fruit juice actually shortens your lifespan (probably because of the blood sugar spikes) where as eating fruit is very good for you because it still includes the fiber. Maybe drink a smoothie and use a straw instead of juicing.

      • With citrus fruit specifically I would be careful to limit it to no more than 2-3 per day and don't hold it on your teeth for an extended period of time because of the citric acid that can damage your teeth.

    • Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals. Berries have specifically been shown to be protective against oral cancers.

    • Tomatoes: Lycopene, found in tomatoes, has been linked to a reduced risk of several cancers, including oral cancer.   

  • Whole Grains: Opt for whole wheat bread, brown rice, and quinoa over refined grains. Whole grains provide fiber and other nutrients that support overall health.   

  • Lean Protein: Choose lean sources of protein like fish, poultry, and beans.  Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish may also offer protective benefits.   


A Healthy Diet Can Help Decrease Oral Cancer Risk
A Healthy Diet Can Help Decrease Oral Cancer Risk

Foods to Limit or Avoid: Fueling the Risk

Just as some foods can protect you, others can increase your risk of oral cancer. It's crucial to be mindful of these dietary culprits:   


  • Processed Meats: Bacon, sausage, and deli meats contain nitrates and nitrites, which can form carcinogenic compounds in the body.   

  • Red Meat:  While lean red meat can be part of a balanced diet, excessive consumption has been linked to an increased risk of several cancers.   

  • Sugary Drinks: Sodas, juices, and other sugary beverages contribute to inflammation and can weaken the immune system. Reducing sugary beverages will also help in preventing tooth decay which is far more common than cancer.

  • Excessive Alcohol:  Combined with tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for oral cancer.   

  • Highly Processed Foods: These foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and sodium, and low in nutrients.   


Partnering for Prevention at Copper Mountain Dental

At Copper Mountain Dental, we're committed to your overall well-being. While a healthy diet is crucial, regular dental checkups are equally important for early detection of oral cancer. During your visit, we conduct a thorough oral examination, including an oral cancer screening. This painless procedure allows us to identify any potential issues early on, when treatment is most effective. We are honored to serve you as a dentist in Herriman.


Take control of your oral health! Schedule your routine cleaning and exam at Copper Mountain Dental today. We can help you maintain a healthy smile and provide guidance on diet and lifestyle choices that reduce your risk of oral cancer.


Call or text us at 385-237-5252 to book your appointment and let our friendly team at Copper Mountain Dental help you achieve a lifetime of healthy smiles.


Additional Resources:

For further information on diet and oral cancer prevention, please visit:

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